This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice is the ultimate cozy side dish or base for your favorite protein.
Made with just five pantry staples, it comes together in under 15 minutes and delivers rich, cheesy, savory goodness in every spoonful.
Why I Love This Recipe
Only 5 ingredients and ready in minutes
Ultra-creamy and cheesy with Parmesan
No-fuss stovetop method
Perfect side dish for grilled chicken, salmon, or veggies
Great for quick weeknight dinners or lunch meal prep
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cream of chicken soup – the base of that luscious, creamy texture
Chicken broth – adds flavor and richness
Instant white rice – quick-cooking and perfectly fluffy
Parmesan cheese – for that nutty, salty punch
Black pepper – just a dash to balance the flavors
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use unsalted soup and broth to control the saltiness
Don’t skip the resting time – it’s key for fluffy rice
Try freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor
Add veggies like peas or spinach for extra nutrition
Double the batch for easy lunches all week
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice
Step 1: Heat the Base
In a 2-quart saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth.
Heat over medium-high until it comes to a gentle boil.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in the instant rice, Parmesan cheese, and a dash of black pepper.
Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Cover and Rest
Remove from heat and cover the saucepan.
Let it stand for 5 to 8 minutes so the rice can absorb the liquid.
Step 4: Fluff and Serve
After resting, fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.
What to Serve It With
Grilled or roasted chicken
Baked salmon or shrimp
Steamed broccoli or sautéed greens
Tossed salad with vinaigrette
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Variations & Add-Ins
Stir in chopped rotisserie chicken for a full meal
Add frozen peas, corn, or spinach
Use brown rice (increase liquid and cook time accordingly)
Try adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
Reheat: Microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen
Freezing not recommended – rice may get mushy
FAQs
Can I use long-grain rice instead of instant rice?
Not recommended for this recipe. Instant rice cooks quickly and absorbs liquid evenly.
Is there a substitute for Parmesan?
Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Use cream of mushroom soup and vegetable broth.
Can I use leftover cooked rice?
You can, but reduce the broth and skip the resting step.
Is this gluten-free?
Check labels on your soup and broth to ensure they’re gluten-free.
Can I add protein?
Yes! Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or even crispy bacon.
What if I want more flavor?
Add a splash of hot sauce, lemon juice, or fresh herbs.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice is comfort food at its simplest.
It’s the kind of dish you keep in your back pocket for busy nights or when you need something warm and satisfying.
Delicious on its own or as a side, it’s a creamy classic you’ll make again and again.
